Top Attractions

10 guides

Pinnacle Peak Park

Hike Pinnacle Peak Park in North Scottsdale — a well-maintained out-and-back trail through boulders and saguaros with sweeping foothill and Troon views.

Jul 28, 2026

Outdoors

McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Hike the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale — 30,000+ acres of protected Sonoran Desert, from easy Gateway loops to the climb toward Tom's Thumb.

Jul 28, 2026

Arts

Canal Convergence

Canal Convergence lights up the Scottsdale Waterfront each fall with large-scale interactive art, live performances, and nightly programming along the canal.

Jul 28, 2026

Wellness

Spa Avania

Unwind at Spa Avania in Scottsdale — mineral-water therapy, a Himalayan salt room, and desert-inspired treatments for a serene half-day retreat.

Jul 28, 2026

Local Favorites

6 guides

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Dining

Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor

The Sugar Bowl in Old Town Scottsdale — a pink-walled institution serving sundaes and classic American fare from a soda-fountain counter since the 1950s.

Jul 28, 2026

Dining

Citizen Public House

Citizen Public House in Old Town Scottsdale — carefully made comfort food and a serious cocktail program, home of the cult-favorite Original Chopped Salad.

Jul 28, 2026

Signature Events

3 guides

Event

Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show

The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show at WestWorld each February — thousands of top-level Arabian show horses, plus shopping, food, and family events.

Jul 28, 2026

Event

Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction

The Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction at WestWorld of Scottsdale each January — thousands of classic, custom, and dream cars crossing the block.

Jul 28, 2026

Stories & Guides

4 guides

Stories & Guides

Scottsdale's Peak and Off Seasons, Honestly

When to visit Scottsdale, honestly: the January to April peak, the punishing summer, the quiet November shoulder, and why the high country runs opposite.

Aug 18, 2026

Stories & Guides

Vacation Rental or Hotel in Scottsdale?

Renting a home versus booking a Scottsdale resort: space, private pools, kitchens, laundry, cost shape by group size, and what a hotel does better.

Aug 18, 2026

Things to do in Scottsdale